Mr. Wirt's hand writing has a strong resemblance to that of his friend
John P. Kennedy--it is by no means, however, as good, and has too much
_tapering_ about it to be thoroughly picturesque. The writing is
black, strong, clear, and very neat. It is, upon the whole, little in
accordance with the character of Mr. W.'s compositions. The lines are
crooked. The paper bluish and English--wafered.
{211} LETTER XVII.
_Washington_, ----.
_Dear Sir_,--In answer to your kind inquiries concerning my health, I
am happy to inform you that I was never better in my life. I cannot
conceive in what manner the report to which you allude could have
originated.
Believe me with the highest respect, your much obliged friend and
servant,
[Illustration: Joseph Story]